Bingo Tax

Recently, the British government proposed an increase on the bingo tax from 15% to 22%. The bingo industry has long been the victim of double taxation in the United Kingdom. They are basically being assessed twice while other gambling related games are not. The proposed increase in the tax has met stiff opposition from the bingo industry.

In Rochdale, Bingo players are also speaking out to the government. They are urging them to reconsider the 7% tax increase. Other bingo hall patrons and employees have also filed suit by writing letters of protest to Paul Rowen, the local MP. Rowen has long been a supporter of the bingo industry. Earlier in the year, he was a proponent of a campaign to help rescue the bingo halls. Rowen has already sent letters of opposition to Andy Burnham, culture minister and Chancellor Alistair Darling. Many fear that the tax burden will continue to contribute to lay-offs and even more bingo hall closings. This is definitely not helpful given the current economic climate.

Regular bingo hall patrons are also concerned what this tax increase will do to the cost of a bingo game. While a rate increase has not occurred as of yet, many are afraid that eventually the tax increase will naturally trickle down forcing the prices to increase. Many bingo hall patrons are women. They seem to feel that the government proposal is targeting them by potentially keeping them from the game they enjoy. Many women use the bingo halls as an opportunity to socialize with others. For some elderly women, this is their only means of socialization. Also, some use the bingo halls as a chance to have a meal as well.

Paul Rowen has vowed to continue his support and fight against the unfair bingo tax increase. He vows to work diligently to improve these conditions for the many elderly women who frequent bingo halls. Rowen also fears that more and more bingo halls will be forced to close their doors for good. He will continue to call for the bingo tax to remain at 15%. This move is supported by the Liberal Democrats in Parliament.

Recently, the British government proposed an increase on the bingo tax from 15% to 22%. The bingo industry has long been the victim of double taxation in the United Kingdom. They are basically being assessed twice while other gambling related games are not. The proposed increase in the tax has met stiff opposition from the bingo industry.

Article Source: Bingo Tax